Numerical Model for Thermal Performance: Analysis of a Panel Radiator Cap and Ventilation Grills

In this study, a numerical model is developed to analyze the thermal behavior of a panel type (PCP) aluminum radiator used for space heating. The developed model is applied for a slice of the radiator and convection and radiation effects are included in the calculations. The effects of backside vents, radiator cap and its openings are investigated. The model accuracy tests were carried out in the test chamber located in the Thermal Sciences Laboratory of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Gazi University, using the test results carried out according to TS EN 442 standard on the market equivalent of the analyzed radiator. The test chamber was equipped according to ANSI/ASHRAE-138 standard and converted to TS EN 442 radiator test. The results of the numerical analysis show that 600-800-1100-1400 W thermal power can be obtained for temperature differences of 30-40-50-60°C using the radiator under investigation and the heat transfer coefficient of the radiator was found to be between 5-8 W/m² K on average. The openings at the back of the radiator enhance the radiator power by approximately 6,7%. Radiator cap reduces the radiator power of the radiator by about 10%. The open air vent of the radiator cap increases the power by 1.4%. The effect of this is limited.